From 1 Week to 1 Month

Peru is an enormous nation. To do it justice, you want a whole lot of time. From the capital of Lima to the traditional metropolis of Cusco to the jungles of the Amazon to the seaside cities to the ruins of the Sacred Valley, Peru presents you with a whole lot of choices.

I spent 2.5 weeks there and completely beloved it. However even at a quick tempo, I nonetheless felt like I barely noticed something (though I crammed a whole lot of actions into my journey).

So, in such a big nation, how do you break up a visit? How do you choose what to see and do? What sort of itinerary do you make?

Effectively, after all, a whole lot of that has to do with what you’re going for: the Amazon, the mountain climbing, the historical past, or the meals?

Most first-time guests to Peru do the southern route: Lima, Arequipa, Lake Titicaca, and Cusco/Sacred Valley. This route has probably the most historic websites and the largest points of interest. However there’s additionally the Amazon, the seaside cities, and smaller ruins within the north.

To provide you some concepts on potential routes, listed below are my urged itineraries for visiting Peru:

Peru Itinerary: One Week

I might solely go to Peru for one week if you happen to’re simply planning to hike the Inca Path. If that’s the case, I’d fly to Cusco, spend two days acclimatizing (and seeing the sights I like to recommend under), after which do the hike. After that, you possibly can spend a pair days stress-free in Cusco earlier than flying residence.

Peru Itinerary: Two Weeks

Two weeks permits you to get an excellent (albeit barely rushed) really feel of the nation. You’ll want to maneuver shortly (flying and in a single day buses can be a should), and also you received’t get a whole lot of down time, nevertheless it’s a doable itinerary.

Days 1–3: Lima
Fly into Lima (if you happen to’re coming from the USA, you’ll land within the morning, so that you’ll get a full day) and spend your first day sightseeing and consuming as a lot as potential. The capital is a huge metropolis residence to over 11 million folks. Most guests focus on the neighborhoods of Miraflores, Downtown, and Barranco, as these are the place the vast majority of the points of interest are and since they’re the most secure districts.

My urged issues to do in Lima are as follows:

Free strolling tour – I like free strolling excursions, as they’re an effective way to get to know a brand new place and its historical past, to get your bearings, and to attach with an area information who can share their insider suggestions and information. Lima has a whole lot of free strolling tour firms, however two I like to recommend are Milky Approach and Free Strolling Excursions Peru.

Airbnb Experiences – Airbnb has a whole lot of unimaginable meals excursions, cooking lessons, and historical past walks price trying out. I feel they’re an underrated useful resource as I’ve accomplished some superb actions through the platform. Regardless of your curiosity, you’ll have the ability to discover one thing distinctive.

Museo Larco – This non-public museum options an intensive assortment of pre-Columbian artwork, gold, and jewels in an outdated 18th-century mansion with a lovely café with a pleasant backyard. There’s additionally a bit that includes pre-Colombian erotic artwork. Spanning over 5,000 years of historical past, it’s an amazing place to get a primer on Peru’s previous.

Huca Pucllana – It is a enormous adobe and clay pyramid inbuilt seven staggered platforms. It’s large and simple to get to because it’s in Miraflores, the principle district everybody stays in, so it’s very easy to see. It served as an necessary ceremonial and administrative middle for the Lima tradition (a society that existed between 100 and 700 CE). Your ticket comes with a tour that lasts about an hour.

Surquillo Market – Positioned within the district with the identical title, Surquillo is my favourite market on the town. It’s enormous and there are a whole lot of little eating places right here. For those who’re seeking to buy groceries and eat some unimaginable and cheap meals, that is the spot.

Museo de Arte de Lima – Opened in 1961, the Lima Artwork Museum is the principle artwork museum within the metropolis and has a set that features ceramics, textiles, sculptures, and work spanning over 3,000 years, from pre-Columbian occasions to the current, with a concentrate on native artists. Additionally they have a rotating checklist of short-term exhibitions from worldwide artists, so there’s at all times one thing new to see.

LUM Museum – Formally referred to as the “The Place of Reminiscence, Tolerance, and Social Inclusion,” this academic museum is devoted to the Peruvian inside battle of Nineteen Eighties and Nineteen Nineties and honors its victims. There have been over 50,000 casualties from the battle, which occurred between the federal government and the Maoist guerilla group Shining Path (60,000 folks had been displaced as nicely). It’s a sobering however must-visit museum.

Furthermore, Lima has the most effective meals scenes on the earth, so remember to eat, eat, and eat some extra. The primary restaurant is right here as are among the different prime ones. Simply remember that a majority of those higher-end spots shut on Sunday and that you simply’ll must make reservations months prematurely (although if you happen to arrive after they open, you would possibly have the ability to get a seat as a result of a last-minute cancelation). Some which can be definitely worth the expense are:

• La Mar (seafood)
• Mercado (seafood)
• Maido (Japanese)
• Woman Bee (cocktails)
• Contraste (Peruvian)
• Central (Peruvian)

Subsequent, relying in your pursuits, you might spend a pair extra days in Lima sightseeing and consuming (it’s a cool metropolis), or head down the coast to Paracas, Haucachina, and Nazca earlier than both coming again to Lima to fly to Arequipa (or simply taking the in a single day bus from Nazca). Paracas is known for its mangroves, Haucachina for its sand dunes, and Nazca for the Nazca traces and the archeological website, Cahuachi. You don’t really want greater than an evening in every place in case you are brief on time.

Days 4–7: Arequipa
I completely love Arequipa. The White Metropolis (referred to as that due to the white volcanic stone used for the buildings) has an unimaginable, energetic vibe, actually vibrant meals scene, and wonderful Spanish structure. It additionally makes for an excellent base to discover the close by canyons and mountains the area is known for. I may have spent weeks within the metropolis I beloved it a lot (as did my mates). However, if yo solely have just a few days, I like to recommend spending two days exploring the town after which an in a single day journey to the Colca Canyon, which is Peru’s Grand Canyon.

Right here’s what’s to not miss within the metropolis of Arequipa:

Free strolling tour – There are a few nice free strolling excursions run by the identical two firms as in Lima.

Basilica Cathedral of Arequipa – Located in the principle plaza, that is crucial Catholic church within the metropolis. Excursions right here take about 45 minutes (although you possibly can go by yourself), encompassing the gorgeous work, ornate decorations, and big organ.

Mundo Alpaca – This free museum offers you a whole lot of details about alpacas, their significance to Andean tradition, and the way their fur is made into garments. (The indicators are actually detailed and nicely accomplished.) Plus, you possibly can even feed among the animals on the middle.

Santa Catalina – Taking over a whole metropolis block, this convent is to not be missed. Based in 1580, it was energetic for hundreds of years. You get to discover a sequence of placing cloisters, chapels, and even an artwork gallery. I might advocate getting a information for 20 soles, so that you get extra historical past and context. The excursions final about an hour (however you possibly can see it by yourself after as nicely).

Yanahuara Mirador – Positioned outdoors the town middle, this viewpoint offers you sweeping vistas of the town and surrounding countryside. The district of the identical title can also be a quiet, fairly neighborhood usually freed from vacationers that’s price exploring (try La Nueva Palomino, an unimaginable restaurant serving cheap Peruvian meals).

The Church of the Firm – That is one in all Arequipa’s most iconic church buildings, with imposing Baroque façade (the unique was destroyed in an earthquake within the 1800s) and inside. Inside, you’ll discover unimaginable work by native artists (and Virgin and Youngster by Bernardo Bitti) and gold altarpieces. Plus, you possibly can go to the cloisters, which at the moment are a gallery!

For nice eating, my two favourite spots had been China and Indigo, which each function revolutionary Andean meals. For a scrumptious Peruvian holes-in-the-wall, try Picanteria La Mundial. I additionally advocate a breakfast spot referred to as Isidro, run by two Peruvians who hung out coaching in NYC. And Munanqui (a café) has among the finest sandwiches and tea choice I got here throughout within the nation.

For the Colca Canyon, there’s a whole lot of operators round. I went through the corporate Peru Hop. Most in a single day excursions value round $40 USD.

Days 8–12: Cusco
From Arequipa, you possibly can both take an in a single day bus or fly to Cusco, an enormous metropolis with a whole lot of actions and sights to discover. Don’t attempt to rush it. In truth, spend as a lot time right here as you possibly can! It lives as much as all of the hype, and it’s stuffed with world-class eating places, a number of artwork museums, fascinating historic websites, and exquisite structure.

I might spend two days on the town to acclimatize your self earlier than doing any main hikes, because it’s 13,000 ft above sea degree!

A few of my favourite issues to see and do listed below are as follows:

Free strolling tour – As you possibly can inform, I like a free strolling tour, and there are half a dozen firms right here. Your lodge or hostel can join you with one, or you should utilize the businesses talked about in earlier sections. Simply keep in mind to tip on the finish!

Saqsaywaman – This citadel advanced on the northern outskirts of the town was constructed within the fifteenth century, although the earliest occupation of the location dates again even earlier, to round 900 CE. A UNESCO World Heritage Website, it’s a vastly spectacular construction and is certainly a must-see. You’ll be able to rent a information outdoors the doorway, as there’s no signage right here. It’s additionally tremendous straightforward to get to (you possibly can stroll there or take the bus).

Qorikancha – A very powerful Incan temple in Cusco is positioned within the coronary heart of the town. Named “The Golden Temple” (as a result of the partitions had been as soon as lined in sheets of gold), it was the place the Excessive Priest resided and the place numerous sacrifices had been held. It was demolished and was a church by the Spanish, however a whole lot of the unique partitions are nonetheless there. It additionally options rotating artwork reveals.

The Pre-Columbian Artwork Museum – Opened in 2003, this museum devoted to the show of archaeological artifacts and examples of pre-Columbian artworks. There are virtually 500 gadgets on show right here, a lot of that are n load from the Larco Museum in Lima (its mum or dad museum). For those who missed the museum in Lima, this can be a good one to see as an alternative since they cowl a whole lot of the identical stuff.

Coca Museum – Museo De La Coca is a tiny museum that goes into nice element concerning the historical past of coca and its significance to native tradition, in addition to the way it turned outlined by cocaine over the centuries. I used to be actually impressed by the extent of element within the descriptions. For those who’re going to mountain climbing, chances are high you’re going to be chewing cocoa leaves, so remember to cease by. It’s small, however fascinating!

Machu Picchu Museum – You’ll want to see this museum earlier than you go to the location because it offers a whole lot of historical past concerning the website and its rediscovery in 1911 by Hiram Bingham. There are informative shows, academic movies concerning the unique excavations, and artifacts from the location. It’s a pleasant primer to visiting the precise ruins.

Franciscan Convent – This lovely convent is stuffed with majestic tapestries, work, and cloisters, and encompasses a ornamental church. There’s little or no signage, however the pamphlet they provide you is de facto detailed. It was inbuilt 1572 by order of Viceroy Francisco de Toledo. Don’t miss the library, which has a polyglot bible written in 5 languages.

Regional Historic Museum of Cusco – Opened in 1946, this museum does an honest job of explaining the historical past of the area, particularly earlier than the Spanish arrived. There’s an honest assortment of textiles, work, and ceramics. The opposite sections depart a bit to be desired, nevertheless it makes for a brief cease if you wish to be taught extra concerning the area’s historical past.

San Pedro Market – That is the most important and most vibrant market on the town. If you wish to do any buying, get some native produce, or simply wander round and snack, that is the place to do it!

San Blas – This space of Cusco is known for its artwork and eating places (enjoyable reality: the Incas initially settled artists from across the empire right here, and it’s been an artsy district ever since). The realm has a bohemian vibe and it’s up on a hill, so there are just a few good viewpoints too.

Then spend as many days you need mountain climbing. Everybody goes to go to Machu Picchu, however I wouldn’t advocate doing it in a single day, as a result of it’s a must to rise up soooooo early from Cusco. As a substitute, I might go to Ollantaytambo the evening earlier than after which both take the prepare or you are able to do hike from Km104. (For extra data on trekking Machu Picchu, try this publish.)

For those who’re inquisitive about different treks, there are additionally hikes to Palcoyo, Waqrapukara, Huchuy Qosqo, Pumamarca, and so, so, so many others. Actually, you could have a ton of choices!

After that I might, come again to Cusco for a day and chill out or fly to Lima for a day there earlier than your flight.

Days 13 & 14: Lima
Spend your remaining day or two sightseeing and consuming earlier than flying residence.

Various Two-Week Itinerary

Conversely, if you happen to wished to go to the Amazon, you might lower out Arequipa, maintain the identical itinerary for Lima and Cusco and go to both Puerto Maldonado or Iquitos to see the Amazon. Puerto Maldonado has extra high-end jungle lodges, whereas from Iquitos you might do some multiday river cruises. Each locations require flights to get to.

Peru One Month Itinerary

In case you have a full month, I might comply with the above two-week itinerary but in addition add within the following:

Do extra mountain climbing – There are such a lot of hikes within the Sacred Valley (and round Peru typically) that if in case you have the time, you might hike as a lot as you need. You have got those I discussed about in addition to multi-day treks within the Colca Canyon, up north within the Amazon, and many different locations!

Go to the Amazon – Peru is the place the Amazon River begins its journey to the Atlantic. Positively try both Puerto Maldonado or Iquitos to discover and be taught concerning the jungle and river. In Iquitos, you possibly can take 3-5 day river cruises.

Puno/Lake Titicaca – You’ll be able to spend a few days in Puno, which is considerably between Cusco and Arequipa, and take within the famed Lake Titicaca, the best lake on the earth. There’s not a lot in Puno however the lake is great. I’d spend 2-3 days right here.

Mancora – Positioned up north, Mancora is a well-known seaside city and an amazing place for world-class seafood. It’s sort of a celebration spot, however you may as well go to with out partying. It’s additionally fairly distant, so the easiest way to get there may be to fly.

Spend extra time within the different areas – You may also add in additional days within the Colca Canyon, Nazca, Lima, or actually every other a part of the nation that fits your pursuits!

Peru is a huge nation. You’ll by no means have sufficient time, irrespective of how a lot you could have (until you progress there). There’s far more to see than you would possibly suppose, so, as you make your itinerary, don’t stress an excessive amount of or attempt to jam all of it in. See what you possibly can and use the above strategies as a place to begin. Try this, and also you’ll remember to have a tremendous journey!